RSNA 2016: How women can climb the jungle gym to success

It’s tough being a woman in radiology. Women account for only 27 percent of the specialty. Gaining a position of leadership is even harder. Only 16 percent of academic radiology chairs are women.

In an effort to empower female radiologists to take a commanding role in the field, RSNA presented a session entitled, “Women in Leadership,” at this year’s conference.

Margaret M. Szabunio, MD, chief of the division of women’s radiology at the University of Kentucky, moderated the panel of four female radiologists who spoke on a variety of topics ranging from why women don’t ask for leadership roles to how to attain a leadership position within your organization.

Meryle J. Eklund, MD, an assistant professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, kicked off the presentation with a discussion of how to best transition from trainee to attending. Her biggest professional regret—and the major take-away from her talk—was to always negotiate.

“When preparing to take your first job, be ready to talk salary, work hours and autonomy,” Eklund said. “Practice selling yourself and know your worth. You’re never going to get what you don’t ask for.”

According to Eklund, women often feel unprepared for negotiations and are often just thankful to be offered a job in their desired field. Men, on the other hand, will always negotiate.

“You need to have a blueprint,” Eklund said. “Know where you want to be and what is expected of you. It makes it easier to meet both the hospital’s goals as well as your own.”

Setting that blueprint and knowing exactly what you want to achieve from your career can be challenging. Rebecca J. Leddy, MD, assistant director of breast imaging at the Medical University of South Carolina, advised seeking mentors and networking opportunities to help find the right path and progress along it.

“Seek male and female mentors in the field,” Leddy said. “Varying perspectives are key and help keep you well rounded.”

Women should also know that the path to success is not a ladder, it’s a jungle gym with many twists and turns.

In addition, she recommends getting involved in committees and voicing your ideas.

“If you’re not happy, you have four options,” Leddy said. “Push for change, put up with it, pull out or stay and play.”

Carol M. Rumack, MD, a fellow of the American College of Radiology, closed the presentation with a strong message: “If you don’t ask, opportunity won’t always knock. You can’t expect others to notice you.”

In a nod to Sheryl Sandberg, COO at Facebook, Rumack encouraged the women in attendance to “be bossy,” and ask for what they want.

“Hard work along will not convince the leadership,” Rumack said. “You have to be visible.”

This means collaborating with colleagues and establishing a friendly and trusting relationship. These are the people who will recommend you for future positions, Rumach said.

And above all, don’t expect every situation to be the perfect fit. Rumack’s advice: Get into a role and change the organization from the inside out.